Dr. Katie. P. Desiderio, a graduate of the PhD in Leadership and Education with a Specialization in Human Resource Development from the Adrian Dominican School of Education, delivered the commencement speech to the May, 2011 graduates of Moravian College.

Dr. Desiderio is an Assistant Professor of Management at Moravian College and has completed her second year as a faculty member. She spoke of her quest for self-discovery and true happiness during her journey in academics while managing a learning disability. She is truly dedicated to the students, graduates, and the profession of teaching.

“I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to you, the class of 2011, for giving me this remarkable gift to share so intimately in your special day,” said Dr. Desiderio. “It is because of you that I love what I do; it is because of your unique curiosities that I remain on my toes; it is because of you that, just like that first day of convocation, I will remember this day – YOUR day – for the rest of my life.”

She spoke of the four principles of the Fish! Philosophy: “be there, play, make their day, and choose your attitude”, and how these practices will add to a person’s self-discovery and happiness.

Dr. Desiderio’s current research is in the area of FLOW that looks at finding happiness to optimize performance at work. She is also involved in research with fellow human resource development scholars in the areas of physiognomy, social and transitional justice issues in human resource development, perceived leader behavior, and organizational citizenship behavior. She is the advisor to several clubs on campus at Moravian College including the Economics & Business Club, Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority, and co-advisor to the student chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).